Birthstones are essentially gemstones that have been officially chosen to represent a particular month. For instance, if you happen to be born in July, then your birthstone is Ruby.
Similarly, every other month has a gem assigned to it. Fine jewelry featuring birthstones are quite popular in today’s time. If you’d like to know more about them then dive right in!
What’s the Origin of Birthstones?
Several sources link the concept of birthstones to the ancient Aaron’s breastplate. It is believed to showcase twelve gems and was said to represent the tribes of Israel, as described in the Book of Exodus. This particular topic was often debated and gave birth to several interpretations and translations. Modern gemological authorities have also argued about the exact place of its origin. Some claim the tradition of birthstones first began in Poland, while others say it all started in Germany.
Currently, the appeal of birthstones has very little to do with their historical origin, whether it’s the story of the Foundation Stones of Christianity or Aaron’s breastplate.
Here Are the Designated Birthstones for All 12 Months
1) January Birthstone: Garnet
This radiant gem is available in many varieties, with purplish-red rhodolite and mandarin orange spessartite being extremely sought-after for their rarity and attractive colors.
2) February Birthstone: Amethyst
This gemstone is both dramatic and stunning at the same time. Renowned for its magnificent purple hue, the amethyst used to be extremely scarce and accessible only to the royal families.
3) March Birthstone: Aquamarine
Its name is derived from a Latin word, which translates to ‘water of the sea’. Aquamarine is loved for its icy-blue hue and is said to symbolize courage, peace and calm.
4) April Birthstone: Diamond
Formed under intense heat and crushing volcanic pressure, the diamond is undoubtedly one of the most valuable jewels found on earth. It’s not just beautiful to look at but is also exceptionally strong.
5) May Birthstone: Emerald
The emerald is a highly-sought after precious gemstone. It’s known to have distinct inclusions know as ‘jardins’, which add character to its eye-catching beauty.
6) June Birthstone: Pearl or Moonstone
Pearl is the only gem that is not formed inside the earth’s crust; it’s a gem of the sea. Moonstone, on the other hand, displays ‘adularescence’ which gives it an ethereal glow.
7) July Birthstone: Ruby
Known as the ‘King of Gems’, ruby is desired for its exceptional pinkish-red hue. It also happens to be extremely durable and comes second only to the diamond.
8) August Birthstone: Peridot
Egyptians called it the ‘Evening Emerald’ as it was believed to shine brightly after sunset. Today, peridots are used in all kinds of jewelry and are celebrated for their lovely olive-green hue.
9) September Birthstone: Sapphire
A favorite of the royals and celebrities, this gem can be found in many colors with blue and salmon-pink (padparadscha) being the most valuable varieties.
10) October Birthstone: Tourmaline or Opal
Also called the ‘Rainbow Gem’, tourmaline is found in many hues with pink being the most popular. Opal is treasured for displaying unique play-of-color, which cannot be found in any other gem.
11) November Birthstone: Topaz or Citrine
Topaz isn’t just radiant, it’s also colorful as the gem can be found in blue, yellow, orange, red and violet. Known as the stone of positivity, citrine offers an attractive honey-yellow color and excellent clarity.
12) December Birthstone: Tanzanite or Turquoise
Tanzanite isn’t just a gorgeous gem, it’s also extremely rare and comes packed with fascinating legends. The vivid blue turquoise was known as ‘mefkat’ in ancient Egypt, which means ‘gem of joy’.
Also Read – Which Are the Most Expensive Birthstones?
